Is a capsulectomy only performed on the side with capsular contracture or is it standard to do both? (photos)

Generally I if there is an issue with capsular contracture on only one side, and the other breast remained with excellent form and without issues, I would focus treatment to that breast only. Most women getting breast augmentation by plastic surgeons love their new look. However, complications sometime arise and getting a thorough evaluation by a Board Certified plastic surgeon is essential. It appears that you have a capsular contracture, which can certainly be corrected by a surgeon with sufficient experience and expertise in revision breast surgery. I hope this was helpful. Please let me me know if you have any other questions regarding the procedure. Thank you and best of luck. Dr. Campbell

It would be best under these circumstances to have the capsule removed on both sides.  This would allow for better symmetry.

Capsular contracture is the result of aggressive scar
capsule formation and contracture around the implant. Although all breast
implants have a capsule, occasionally the capsule becomes thick and firm. When
capsule tightens around the implant it can cause the affected breast to become
hard and painful (8-16%). The cause of capsular
contracture is unknown, however, bacterial contamination, rupture, and hematoma may be factors. The treatment for
contracture is usually surgery to release or remove the capsule around the implant. The unaffected breast is typically left alone.



Breast implant rupture occurs when
the outer shell of an implant develops a hole or tear. It occurs in about 10%
of breast implants. The rupture of saline implants often manifests in the
deflation of the affected breast as the saline leaks out and is absorbed by the
body. The rupture of silicone implants is often silent (asymptomatic), however,
some patients will complain of a change in shape, lumpiness, or new onset pain
on the side of the rupture. The FDA recommends that ruptured implants be
removed or replaced.



The best non-invasive test for
implant rupture is an MRI. It has an accuracy of 92%, a sensitivity of 89%, and
a specificity of 97% at detecting implant rupture. In real world terms, if a
rupture is seen on MRI the implant is likely ruptured (94%). There are some
ruptures, however, missed by MRI (5%).



Consultation with a plastic surgeon would be the next best
step.